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News at Karingal

Book explores supportive relationships

Barwon region participants and support workers have shared their
stories in a new book which explores the dynamics of the
relationship between young people with a disability and their
support workers.

Researchers from Southern Cross University's Centre for Children
and Young People connected with clients and support workers from
organisations including Karingal and Colac Otway Disability
Accomodation Inc (CODA) to compile photos and stories from 45 pairs
of young people and support workers.

'Relationships and Recognition: Photos about working together'
was the result of their work, and the people featured in the book
were asked to take photos of the activities they do together, and
then talk about what those photos mean.

Karingal Manager Leanne Napper said the Barwon area book launch
held on March 2 at the Eastern Hub was an exciting event, with
young people and support workers keen to see how the photos they
had taken looked in the book.

"The book launch recognised the contribution of young people and
their support workers to this important project and showcased
how positive relationships can make all the difference," she
said.

Karingal practice leader Megan Stolz said the whole
process made the young people feel valued and important
- giving them a voice.

"The project also provided well deserved recognition to
support workers. The support workers set a positive example and
that's why they were chosen in the first place," she
said.

Lead investigator Dr Sally Robinson said the project proved a
valuable experience for all participants.

"Through talking with people and then seeing the photos they
decided to take, we learned a lot about what matters to both young
people and to workers," Dr Robinson said.

"The importance of respect in relationships is clear, and the
good humour and sense of companionship between many of the pairs
comes through strongly in their photos.

"The book was developed so that the people in the project could
see what mattered to people in other parts of the country who were
also involved, and also to form a lasting token of thanks for their
involvement."

'Relationships and Recognition: Photos about working together'
book is part of a larger project Young people with cognitive
disability: relationships and paid support funded through the
Australian Research Council Linkage Grant program. It will continue
until 2018. Learn more about the project http://rcypd.edu.au/projects/r/

Pictured below: Participants, support workers and
officials at the Barwon book launch.

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